What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Battery operators

I recently called a well-known breakdown assistance service for help. My car had been left with lights on which had flattened the battery. The patrolman quickly started the car with a battery booster, ran the engine for about 7/8 minutes, after which the car started/ran perfectly. He then supposedly 'tested' the battery and declared it defective. Next, he tried to sell me a new battery. I declined as my sons are in the motor trade. When my battery was properly checked it was found to be in excellent condition. Not surprising as it is only 14 months old. I am advised that no battery can be tested properly after a few minutes with the engine running. Because I would not buy a battery I am now subject to a £40 surcharge if I have to call the breakdown assistance out again for the same reason. Guess who will not be renewing his membership?

Asked on 9 October 2011 by DG, Folkestone

Answered by Honest John
Other readers have told me of identical experiences with the other well-known and long established breakdown service. The patrolmen must be on commission to sell batteries.
Similar questions
Regarding battery leakdowns, I have a friend who is a modern auto electrician, by which I mean he has all the latest kit code readers, etc., but for a suspect earth he does the following: Connect a multi...
My wife and I both still drive and each own our own car. We are 'getting on a bit' in years but are keen to carry on driving while we feel safe to do so. As the years go by we feel it increasing important...
I have Mercedes E350 with run flat tyres, if I replace these with ordinary tyres would this affect the insurance or my Mercedes service and breakdown cover?
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer